Florida’s New Anti-Voter Law Is Dangerous for Black, Brown, and Young Voters
March13, 2026
Washington, DC — Advancement Project condemns Florida House Bill 991, a sweeping elections measure that would create new barriers to the ballot box and disproportionately harm Black, brown, and low-income communities, including students. Starting next year, this bill will require countless Florida voters to provide documentary proof of citizenship if they want to vote, require the DHSMV to indicate U.S. citizenship status on driver’s licenses, and bar election officials from accepting student ID at the polls.
“Voters should pick their leaders. There’s nothing to celebrate about a system that keeps Black and brown voters, college student voters, and retired voters from casting a ballot that counts. HB 991, modeled on Congress’ dangerous SAVE America Act, will do just that, potentially disenfranchising tens of thousands of eligible voters,” said Carmen Daugherty, Interim Executive Director at Advancement Project.
“Advancement Project stands with students and communities of color in opposing legislation that limits civic participation and opportunities to build power. We call on Governor DeSantis to veto this bill as well as on Florida’s lawmakers to pursue policies that protect voting rights and strengthen Black and brown communities rather than creating new barriers to the ballot box.”
The documentary proof of citizenship provisions in this bill will target and disproportionately purge new citizens from the voter rolls. The citizenship designation for driver’s licenses will also make it easier for law enforcement agencies to target and detain immigrants. Furthermore, removing student IDs from the list of acceptable forms of ID to vote will create an insurmountable barrier to vote for many students.
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Advancement Project is a next-generation, multi-racial civil rights organization. Rooted in the great human rights struggles for equality and justice, we exist to fulfill America’s promise of a caring, inclusive and just democracy. We use innovative tools and strategies to strengthen social movements and achieve high impact policy change. Visit www.advancementproject.org to learn more.
